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Grady Hendrix, a horror writer known for his humor and empathy, faced a real-life horror when he discovered a termite nest in his Manhattan apartment. Despite this, Hendrix's novels, such as "Witchcraft for Wayward Girls," delve into occult horror with emotional depth and wit. Inspired by real-life experiences, Hendrix's work explores themes of empowerment and independence, making horror relatable and meaningful to a diverse audience. [Extracted from the article]

"The Mighty Six-Ninety (690)" by Alexander Hamilton Cherin is a tender story set in Southern California in 1981. The plot revolves around a radio-sponsored treasure hunt where $50,000 is buried and one clue is given per day. The competitors include Sally Lang, a single mother and bank teller, Danny Baker, an aging motorcycle racer, Augie Kloptman, a Holocaust survivor and synagogue janitor, and Jason Schneidman, a 13-year-old boy dealing with his parents' divorce. The novel explores their fears, desires, and need for connection, striking a balance between entertainment and thoughtful examination of the characters. [Extracted from the article]

"Dream Girl Drama" by Tessa Bailey is a sports rom-com novel that follows the story of Sig Gauthier, a hockey player, and Chloe Clifford, a harp player, who fall in love despite their parents' complicated relationship. The immediate connection between the characters may not appeal to all readers, but Bailey's thoughtful characterization and passionate scenes make it a compelling read. As the pair navigate their feelings and family dynamics, their chemistry proves undeniable. [Extracted from the article]

"The Love Lyric" by Kristina Forest is a romance novel that follows the story of recently widowed single mother Iris Greene, who finds herself drawn to R&B star Angel Harrison. Despite her hesitations about his celebrity lifestyle, the pair's mutual attraction leads to a steamy and swoon-worthy romance. The book balances tenderness and heat, making it a captivating conclusion to the Greene Sisters series. [Extracted from the article]

In Tom Lamont's debut novel "Going Home," protagonist Téo Erskine finds himself unexpectedly caring for his deceased friend's toddler, Joel, after the friend's tragic suicide. Set in a Jewish community in London, the story follows Téo as he navigates this new responsibility with the help of his father, friends, and community members. As the characters adjust to loss and uncertainty, the novel offers a textured view of family dynamics and community support. [Extracted from the article]

"Witchcraft for Wayward Girls" by Grady Hendrix is a novel that explores the story of Neva, a 15-year-old girl who finds herself at the Home for Unwed Mothers in 1970. The book focuses on the interpersonal drama and friendships that develop among the pregnant girls at the home. When Neva discovers a book on witchcraft, she and her friends experiment with spells that actually work, giving them a sense of power in their difficult situations. However, as they delve deeper into witchcraft, they must confront the dark consequences it may bring. While the novel has fewer horror elements than expected, it effectively portrays the girls' youth, loss of innocence, and the strength of their friendships. [Extracted from the article]

"Eddie Hest vs. Suburbia" is a debut novel by Catherine Castoro that tells the story of Eddie Hest, a single mother who is determined to provide a good life for her daughter. Eddie moves to a Detroit suburb and unintentionally becomes entangled in the manipulative world of soccer mom Shelia Davis. The book follows Eddie's journey as she navigates the challenges of suburban life and ultimately stands up to Shelia. Castoro's unique storytelling style, presented as descriptive monologues recorded by Eddie, adds to the memorable nature of the protagonist. This entertaining tale will appeal to readers who enjoy stories about unconventional mothers and the complexities of suburban life. [Extracted from the article]

"The Outsmarters" by Deborah Ellis is an absorbing and smartly paced novel set in Canada. The story follows 12-year-old Kate, who was left by her single mother with her strict grandmother, the owner of a junk business. Kate struggles with anger and destructive behavior, but finds solace in opening a Philosophic Help booth on the junkyard grounds. As she navigates her past and forms unlikely alliances, Kate works towards her goal of passing the GED and leaving school. This hard-hitting and hopeful story explores themes of abuse, friendship, and community. [Extracted from the article]

"Elevator in Saigon" is a fiction novel by Thuân, translated from Vietnamese by Nguyê˜n An Lý. The story follows a Vietnamese woman who becomes an amateur detective after her mother's accidental death. The protagonist, a single mother living in Paris, discovers a notebook and a photo of a man named Paul Polotsky, which leads her to uncover her mother's past as a political prisoner during the Vietnam War. The novel skillfully combines elements of detective fiction with a exploration of family secrets. [Extracted from the article]

In "Doing It All: The Social Power of Single Motherhood," journalist Ruby Russell explores how society fails unmarried mothers. She highlights a case in Germany where a mother was forced to grant joint custody to her manipulative ex-boyfriend, despite the emotional distress it caused their son. Russell criticizes the peer support network Single Mothers by Choice for ostracizing women who become single mothers through divorce or unplanned pregnancy. She suggests alternative social arrangements, such as "othermothering" networks seen in Black communities, and advocates for policies like universal basic income and reduced work weeks to support mothers and children. The book presents a persuasive case for normalizing alternatives to the nuclear family. [Extracted from the article]

Alan Hollinghurst's novel "Our Evenings" explores the divisions of post-Brexit London through the divergent paths of two men. The story centers around Dave Win, an aging gay actor who reflects on his life after the death of Mark Hadlow, the philanthropist who sponsored his education. Despite facing homophobic and racial prejudice throughout his life, Dave recounts his successful career in the theater, his loving relationship with his single mother, and his joyful romantic relationships. The novel offers a poignant exploration of identity and the impact of prejudice, with Hollinghurst's emotive prose making it a compelling read. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the novel "The Mesmerist" by Caroline Woods, which combines two historical sources: the women living in Bethany Home for Unwed Mothers and the murders committed by socialite Harry Hayward. The author was inspired by the progressive women of the time and the modernity of the women who ran Bethany Home. The novel focuses on Abby Mendenhall, one of the founding members of Bethany, and her desire to give her life meaning through an investigation. The author also wanted to depict the Gilded Age in a fresh way and included mesmerism as a necessary element in the narrative. [Extracted from the article]

"The Mesmerist" by Caroline Woods is an excellent historical suspense novel set in 1894 Minneapolis. The story revolves around three women who join forces to bring down a serial killer during a spiritualism craze that is sweeping through the lower classes. The protagonist, Faith, arrives at the Bethany Home for Unwed Mothers and is assigned a room with May, a pregnant teenager who was driven from home. As tensions rise and suspicions grow, the women work together to uncover the truth. With meticulous historical detail, gripping suspense, and well-developed characters, this novel is a must-read for mystery fans. [Extracted from the article]

"Fated" by Sarah Ready is a paranormal romance novel that follows Fiona Arby, a single mother and CEO of her family's luxury watch company. Fiona is hesitant to open herself up to love after being betrayed in the past, but her life takes a turn when her estranged mother gives her a family heirloom that grants wishes in her dreams. Fiona dreams of a life with a man named Aaron McCormick, and as her dreams and reality begin to intertwine, readers will be left questioning her path to happiness. With a twisty plot and a charming supporting cast, "Fated" is an enjoyable read that explores the complexities of love and dreams. [Extracted from the article]

"Mama's Chicken and Dumplings" by Dionna L. Mann is a children's fiction book set in the segregated 1930s in Vinegar Hill, a Black neighborhood in Charlottesville, Virginia. The story follows 10-year-old Allie as she plans to find love for her single mother. Allie and her best friend Jewel come up with a plan called Man-for-Mama, believing that any man who tastes her mother's famous chicken and dumplings will fall in love with her. However, complications arise when Allie's band teacher expresses interest in courting her mother. The book provides a well-researched historical setting and explores themes of community and perseverance. Recommended for ages 8-11. [Extracted from the article]

"The Last Refuge: Stealing Sanctuary Series" by Christina Bacilieri is an engaging young adult fantasy novel set on the planet of Atterah. The protagonist, Kiera, finds herself in a gladiatorial-style magical competition after trying to improve her life and inadvertently crossing into the magical realm of Etabon. Forced to fight in the arenas to generate magical energy, Kiera must navigate a brutal system while trying to protect herself and retain her humanity. The novel features relatable characters, twists, thrills, and a touch of Sapphic romance, making it a strong choice for fans of YA fantasy. [Extracted from the article]

Santiago Jose Sanchez's novel, "Hombrecito," tells the story of a queer immigrant's journey of self-discovery and coming of age in Colombia and Miami. Raised by a single mother, Santiago and his older half brother, Manuel, navigate the challenges of their new life in Miami. As Santiago grows up, he realizes he is gay and explores his sexuality. The novel explores themes of identity, family, and the search for a sense of home. The book has received critical acclaim for its immersive storytelling and raw portrayal of Santiago's experiences. [Extracted from the article]

"Happy Harbor" by Rachel Hanna is a contemporary fiction novel that follows the story of Josie Campbell, a single mother, and her rebellious teenage daughter, Kendra. After facing a series of setbacks, including losing her job and being dumped by her fiancé, Josie discovers that her grandmother has passed away, leaving her house and restaurant in Happy Harbor, S.C. Despite her initial reluctance, Josie is required to stay in town for six months and manage the restaurant without firing any staff, leading her to confront her strained relationship with her alcoholic mother and develop a connection with her grandmother's tenant. However, Josie's negative attitude and the unrealistic portrayal of the love interest hinder the book's intended feel-good atmosphere. While the setting is appealing, the overall story falls short. [Extracted from the article]

In "Husbands & Lovers" by Beatriz Williams, Mallory Dunne, a single mother, reconnects with her son's father, Monk Adams, a famous singer, in hopes of finding a kidney donor for her son. The story also follows the parallel narrative of Hannah Ainsworth in 1951 Cairo, who becomes pregnant during an affair and is forced to give up her baby for adoption. Mallory's and Hannah's stories intersect when Mallory and her sister visit the Irish orphanage where their mother was sent. This historical fiction novel explores themes of unexpected pregnancy and difficult decisions. [Extracted from the article]

"Bird Suit" is a debut novel by Sydney Hegele that explores the lives of characters in the vacation town of Port Peter, Ontario. The story revolves around Georgia Jackson, who enters into a sexual relationship with Anglican priest Arlo Bloom, with the consent of his wife, Felicity. The novel delves into their complex relationships, including Felicity's connection to the Birds, mythological creatures who reside on the cliffs above the lake. The narrative spans from 2008 to 2019, with a shocking and tragic episode leading to Georgia's new life as a successful playwright in Toronto. Hegele's distinctive writing style, which includes bulleted lists and wry observations, adds to the beauty of the prose. [Extracted from the article]

An interview with journalist Ruby Russell is presented. She explains that the literature produced by the reproductive justice movement taught her a significant amount. She describes her book "Doing it All: The Social Power of Single Motherhood." She refers to being socially connected with new bonds and friendships as the social power of single motherhood.

While straight men from his generation like Bruce Springsteen cite Elvis as the inspiration to pick up a guitar, Waters writes that it was Elvis who made him realize he was gay. Waters is no stranger to stunts - at screenings for Polyester, audience members received scratch-and-sniff Odorama cards with smells that corresponded to scenes from the film. In the book, he describes the original pitch: "Not the usual John Waters movie about crazy people in a crazy world, but a movie about a normal person in a realistic world doing the craziest thing of all as the audience cheers her on!". [Extracted from the article]

An interview with author Ashley C. Ford is presented with topics like her book "Somebody's Daughter" reflects on coming of age in a household with a single mother and a father in prison, and her unconditional love for her mother.